A Passion for Education

Retired elementary school teacher Dorothy Clark values education and the opportunities that it provides. When she looks at a group of children, Dorothy sees their potential. "There is a dentist, there is a doctor, there is a mom, there is a dad," she says. "Education is the beginning, whether a student earns a certificate or degree. It provides a broader world view."

Dorothy was raised in a small town in southern Idaho, the youngest of four children. Dorothy graduated as valedictorian of her class of 13 students. As valedictorian, she received a scholarship from the local PTA to attend teacher's college in Lewiston. That scholarship, combined with a savings bond from her aunt and her own efforts working while attending school, afforded Dorothy the opportunity for an education.

That passion for education and the opportunities that it provides is what prompted Dorothy to establish the Kenneth G. Clark Memorial Scholarship endowment when her husband passed away in 1995. Annual awards in Ken's memory help North Idaho College students pursue their educational goals.

Dorothy continues to contribute to the memorial fund each year to grow the endowment and increase scholarship awards available. "There are still more students that need help," she says.

Through the years, Dorothy has chosen to make tax-favorable contributions of appreciated assets and IRA distributions. "It is an easy way to contribute to help students who need financial assistance."

To learn more about ways you can join Dorothy in supporting North Idaho College students with a future gift, contact Rayelle Anderson, Executive Director, at (208) 769-5978 or foundation@nicfoundation.org.